Health officials confirmed one measles case in Bowling Green with possible exposure at multiple locations. Residents who visited the listed sites should check their immunity status and watch for symptoms. The Wood County Health Department announced the finding.
The individual was infectious during visits to several local sites, according to the health department. Health officials said anyone at the following locations during these times may have been exposed to measles:
- Bowling Green State University on Sept. 23, 2026, in the Overman or Physical Science buildings
- Pagliai’s Restaurant on Sept. 23, 2026, between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m.
- Wood County Hospital Emergency Department on Sept. 24, 2026, between 8:30 p.m. and 1:30 a.m. on Sept. 25, 2026
- Wood County Hospital Emergency Department on Sept. 25, 2026, between 6:30 a.m. and 2:15 p.m.
- Falcon Health Center on Sept. 28, 2026, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Anyone present during these times should fill out the Measles Close Contact Investigation Form. The form is at woodcountyhealth.org or on the agency social media page.
Risk is very low for protected people, the agency said. These individuals should monitor for symptoms for 21 days.
Unprotected or unsure individuals should call a health care provider quickly, health officials advised. They should ask about post-exposure vaccination within 72 hours. They must also watch for symptoms for 21 days.
People with a fever or unexplained rash should call ahead before visiting a clinic. They should also limit contact with others. Symptoms in exposed non-immune people likely appear within 21 days, the agency said. People with weakened immune systems may take longer to show symptoms.
Health officials describe measles as an acute, highly contagious viral disease. Symptoms include fever, runny nose, cough, red and watery eyes, and rash. It can be contracted at any age, according to the health department.
A person is considered protected if they were born before 1957. Immunity also applies with documented MMR vaccine doses or a past diagnosis from a provider. Health officials recommend vaccination for anyone age 1 and older who is unvaccinated.
Children should receive the MMR vaccine at 12 to 15 months, the agency said. They should get a second dose at 4 to 6 years. Earlier doses may occur at 6 months during travel or outbreaks. Anyone with questions should check with a health care provider.
Public health departments track contagious viruses, notify exposed residents, and manage local vaccination guidance to limit disease spread. Staff members coordinate with local medical centers and clinics during potential community outbreaks.
Most people in Bowling Green remain protected through vaccination, according to the Wood County Health Department. Officials said the overall risk to the public remains low.
